Residents urged to take caution in Wednesday’s heat

Posted on July 17, 2013 at 1:00 a.m.
| Updated on July 17, 2013 at 12:06 p.m.

Wednesday is not a day to be outside, drive or do much of anything besides lay low.

Though thermometers read 91 degrees as of 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, a high heat index made the air feel like 100 degrees, according to AccuWeather.

Due to the hot and humid conditions, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management has declared Wednesday an air quality action day. Ozone levels are expected to be in the orange or unhealthy zone, posing a risk for sensitive groups such as active children and adults and people with respiratory disease.

Residents are encouraged to avoid activities that can lead to ozone formation, including refueling vehicles, using lighter fluid and driving long distances.

Meanwhile, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security reminds residents to take caution when outside and limit their exposure to heat.

Residents are reminded to drink fluids, limit outdoor activities and check in with those who may not have air conditioning. EMS professionals encourage residents to know the signs of heat-related illnesses, especially in the elderly and children.

Wednesday will see temperatures in the upper 90s, with the evening cooling off into the upper 80s around 8 p.m.

The heat will stick around Thursday and Friday, with the afternoon heat index approaching 100 degrees.

Relief will come this weekend as weather patterns are expected to clear the humidity. Thunderstorms on Friday night should bring in colder air, with Saturday and Sunday cooling off into the 80s and 70s.